Backyard Fowl Keepers

Hi, everyone!

Im new here and have been reading through the discussions for a while. I recently started fermenting my chicken feed and would love some advice on a few things Ive noticed.

My flock has been on a soy-free diet from the start. Initially, I fed my chicks a mash starter feed with some corn but no soy. Later, I switched to a soy-free layer mash with corn. Wanting to reduce mess while still providing whole grains, I decided to try fermenting. I chose two new feeds:
- Modesto Milling organic corn-free, soy-free layer pellets (which contain ground limestone)
- Eden Feeds non-GMO whole grain layer mix (which suggests supplementing calcium separately)

I introduced the new feeds gradually, first mixing them dry with their previous mash, then offering them together before fermenting. They have access to free-choice oyster shell, and I occasionally mix some into their fermented feed.

Since making the switch, Ive noticed some changes in egg production, quality, and laying consistency. Some eggs are speckled, a few have what look like blood spots, and one of my hens seems to have stopped laying. Two pullets still havent started laying yet. One hen, a 25 12-week-old Lavender Orpington, is particularly picky about the fermented feed and hasnt begun laying. I do offer dry feed on the side, but the flock picks out certain ingredients and throws the pellets around, which makes me wonder if I should remove the dry option entirely.

Ive experimented with different fermentation methods:
- Making fresh fermented feed daily
- Fermenting for three days before feeding
- Using the backslopping method

My picky eater still wont touch it.

Additionally, I just realized my pellets contain hydrolyzed yeast. Is it okay to ferment with that ingredient included?

Id love to hear any insights on improving egg quality, getting picky hens to eat fermented feed, and whether I should adjust anything in their diet.

Thanks in advance!
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If your flock is free-ranging, they might be getting extra calcium from natural sources, which could explain some egg inconsistencies. You could track what they eat when they forage to see if there's a pattern.

The backslopping method usually works well for me, but I always rinse my bucket every few days to prevent off-flavors from developing. Maybe a different fermentation container would help?

If your pullets haven't started laying, it could be a breed-related delay. Lavender Orpingtons tend to take their time compared to hybrids or production breeds.

Your experiment with different feeding methods is really impressive! Have you noticed any changes in their feather quality or energy levels since switching to fermented feed?136 Feathers are great for composting! They're high in nitrogen and break down over time, adding nutrients to your soil. Just be sure to mix them well with other organic matter.

Blood spots in eggs can happen for various reasons, including stress or a slight rupture in the reproductive tract. If it's only an occasional thing, it's not usually a big concern.

Speckled eggshells are usually caused by excess calcium deposits. If you're mixing oyster shell into the fermented feed, try offering it separately instead.

The picky eater might just prefer dry food. Some chickens never take to fermented feed, and that's okay! If she's healthy otherwise, I wouldn't stress too much.

I had a hen that refused fermented feed for months but finally gave in when I added scrambled eggs to the mix. Maybe try adding a high-protein treat?

Could the hen that stopped laying be molting? Sometimes changes in diet or season can coincide with molting, which might explain the drop in eggs.